Seven Tips for Taking a Profile Photo That Opens Up Career Opportunities
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These days, company recruiters often use professional networking sites to find ideal candidates, and the first thing they notice is often not your educational background but your profile photo. Here are seven simple smartphone selfie tips that can help more recruiters view your profile and, ultimately, help you find your ideal job.
According to statistics, having a photo increases the likelihood of your profile being viewed by 14 times. You don't need to hire a professional photographer to perfect your profile photo. A selfie taken with a smartphone can do the job, as long as you pay attention to the tips below.
1. Use a white wall as the background.
This helps viewers focus on your face. Make sure there are no pictures or signs on the wall, and no "photobombers" behind you.
2. Natural light is always better than flash.
Taking the photo in front of a south-facing window is ideal, as direct light can make your face look better. Avoid strong sunlight that casts shadows on your face.
3. Use the right camera.
Both a DSLR camera and a smartphone work well. If you use a phone, it is best to use the front camera, preferably on a newer model. You can use a makeshift tripod (such as a bookshelf) in place of a selfie stick.
4. Don't look down at the camera; look up.
Raising your head slightly can make your eyes look larger and your face and neck look smaller. Tilting your head down has exactly the opposite effect.
5. Dress formally.
An ideal profile photo includes the head and shoulders, so tops with very low necklines may not look right on camera. You don't want accessories to distract the eye too much, but don't be afraid to wear brightly coloured clothing.
6. Apply the rule of thirds.
The most effective profile photos follow the golden ratio, meaning that, whether viewed vertically or horizontally, your eyes sit roughly at the golden section point, about one third of the way from the top and from either side. Stay far enough from the camera so that the photo can be cropped later.
7. Keep your expression natural.
Keep your expression natural and relaxed to show the real you. Trendy expressions such as pouting, and photos taken in places like beaches, bedrooms, restaurants or gyms, are not suitable for professional networking sites.
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